HESI vs. TEAS: Which Nursing Exam Is Harder?
The HESI exam is generally considered more challenging than the TEAS due to its focus on critical thinking and application of nursing concepts.
Nursing school applicants often debate whether the HESI A2 or TEAS exam is more challenging. Both tests serve as entrance exams for nursing programs, but their content, structure, and difficulty levels differ. This article breaks down the key differences and helps you determine which test might be harder for you.
HESI A2 vs. TEAS: Key Differences
The HESI A2 and TEAS exams assess academic readiness for nursing school, but they focus on different areas. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | HESI A2 | TEAS |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Questions | ~350 | 170 (150 scored) |
| Duration | Up to 4 hours | 209 minutes |
| Sections | Anatomy, Biology, Chemistry, Math, Reading, Vocabulary, Physics, Personality Profile | Science, Math, Reading, English |
| Scoring | Percentage-based (75%+ often required) | Weighted scoring (65-70%+ often required) |
Why HESI Is Often Considered Harder
Many students find the HESI A2 more difficult because:
- It includes advanced science sections like Anatomy & Physiology and Chemistry.
- The vocabulary section tests medical terminology.
- Some schools require additional sections like Physics.
One student on AllNurses shared: “I only studied for a week on the HESI and scored 88%, but for the TEAS, I studied for 2-3 months and scored in the mid-70s.”
Why Some Find TEAS More Challenging
Others argue the TEAS is tougher because:
- It covers broader academic skills, which may be rusty for some test-takers.
- The English and Reading sections require strong comprehension skills.
- Wrong answers impact your score more due to weighted scoring.
How to Prepare for Both Exams
Since nursing schools may require either test, thorough preparation is key. Here are some study tips:
1. Use Practice Tests
Both Pocket Prep HESI A2 and TEAS apps offer realistic practice questions. Many students report seeing similar questions on the actual exam.
2. Focus on Weak Areas
If science is your strength, the HESI may feel easier. If you excel in reading comprehension, the TEAS could be less daunting.
3. Study Over Several Weeks
ATI recommends 6 weeks of preparation for the TEAS. The HESI may require even more time if your program requires additional sections.
Which Exam Do Nursing Schools Prefer?
According to NurseJournal, some schools prefer the HESI because:
- It allows customization (e.g., adding personality assessments).
- The science-heavy content better predicts nursing school success.
However, many programs accept either exam, so check your school’s requirements before registering.
Final Thoughts
While the HESI is generally considered more challenging due to its specialized content, your personal strengths will determine which test feels harder. If you’re applying to multiple schools, consider taking both—just give yourself enough time to prepare.
For more study resources, check out our guide on the best tools for efficient learning.
